Jackie K. Bertotto

Jackie Kenneth “Jack” Bertotto of Almond, Wisconsin, passed away February 10, 2026 at the age of 91 in comfort at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in King, WI. In his final days, he was surrounded daily by his family and the unmatched compassion of his loving wife. Jack left this world after one final kiss from the woman he spent more than 70 years with.

Born Feb. 5, 1935, in Friendship, Wisconsin, Jack lived a life marked by service, dedication, and a deep love for his family. The middle of five children born to Edward Bertotto and Merilla (Sherman), he learned the value of hard work at an early age on the family’s dairy farm. Jack attended Tri-County Area High School and left school his junior year via a government program that granted high school diplomas to men entering into military service. It was only a few years ago that Jack was able to walk across the stage and receive the diploma he earned so many years before to the cheers of his family and friends in attendance.

Over the course of a distinguished 20-year military career as an electrician in the United States Air Force, he rose to the rank of Master Sergeant. His time took him across the globe, serving in England, France, Germany, Alaska, Vietnam, and numerous other U.S. military installations. It was while he was stationed in England, that his life changed forever. On a blind date, he met Jeanette Lawrence. They married in Teddington, England, in 1956, just after her 18th birthday and began a lifelong partnership filled with love and adventure.

After his military service, Jack worked as a union electrician for Consolidated Papers, where he retired after 25 years. Jack spent decades serving in the local chapter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Jeanette served in the Ladies Auxiliary. As a couple, both were deeply committed to civic engagement, doing what they could to make their community and their nation better for all. A man who found joy in simple pleasures, he loved hunting, fishing, camping, and eating well- prepared meals, especially when shared with those closest to him. Family gatherings were a cherished part of his life. In retirement, he and Jeanette traveled, enjoying the beauty of the nation they held dear in their hearts. Jack’s greatest passion was to help his children with all their projects and teaching them to be independent and self-reliant. In later years, when he was unable to physically help, he would always be a phone call away with guidance and support.

Jack is survived by his beloved wife Jeanette (Lawrence) Bertotto and their five children: Karen (Jim) Zimmerman of Wautoma; Kenneth (Laurie) Bertotto of Wisconsin Rapids; Renee (Jim) Schindlbeck of Grand Marsh; Dwayne (Denise) Bertotto of Woodbury, Minnesota; and David (Amy) Bertotto of Kohler. Jack also leaves behind eight grandchildren, three great- grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews, who will carry forward his legacy. Jack was the surviving member of his first family, preceded in death by his parents, Edward Bertotto Sr. and Merilla (Sherman) Bertotto; brother Edward Bertotto Jr, sister Barbara Fox, brother Louis Bertotto, and brother Llewellyn Bertotto. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and friend, Jack’s life was one of strength and unwavering loyalty. He will be deeply missed by those who loved him. We ask that you remember Jack by thanking a military member, a veteran, and their family for their service. Finally, the family would like to thank the amazing staff at the Wisconsin Veterans Home at King and the team at ThedaCare Hospice for the care and compassion they provided to Dad.

A service remembering Jack’s life, will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 11:00 AM in the Stahl Funeral Home, Plainfield. Visitation will be held 9:30 - 11:00 AM at the funeral home followed by Military Honors. Luncheon to follow.